Extra large breast implants after mastectomy

Question

hi i want to know women who had mastectomy and done beast reconstruction with tissue expanders can change their implants to extra large breast implants like 2000cc with several operation ? or can stretch their skin up to 2000cc or more with tissue expanders?(just for women had mastectomy)

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

After many complications related to extra large implants, these have been removed from the market since the largest expanders were used which were known as the Becker.  These were large in volume, had two lumens, one saline and one gel, had poor projection and shape (looked like a pancake), and had a high rupture rate.  There are implants that are 850cc, but again would visit with a board certified plastic surgeon that does at least 30 breast reconstructions a year.  Our expertise is comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery.  What this means is that women from all over the country visit our practice for consultations for breast augmentation, breast implant revision, and reconstruction.

David S. Motoki, MD · Answer

Anatomic breast tissue expanders max out at about 850 cc and silicone gel breast implants max out at about 800 cc. Even with overfilling of a saline implant, a volume of 2000 cc is not possible. There are a lot of potential complications associated with very large breast implants. Perhaps you are a candidate for autologous tissue breast reconstruction. This uses tissues from your own body for breast reconstruction. Please consult with an experienced plastic surgeon who is certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery to learn about all the breast reconstruction options. Good luck!

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

At the present time the largest silicone device made is 800cc's in size. If patients require larger implants then you would need to change to saline implants. Even then you will not get to 2,000cc's safely. You may be able to get an implant somewhere around 1200 cc's give or take. Discuss this further with your surgeon.

Extra large breast implants after mastectomy

Answers (3)

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